So, what makes a good flip flop? Like a fine wine, it's really a combination of factors that make a flippy fabulous. Comfort, in the form of super soft rubber, is important in order to avoid blisters. Related, a good flip flop is also bendable rather than rigid. A nice bonus is availability in a wide variety of colors, and a relatively affordable price so that you can enjoy all of those colors. Finally, a nice overall style and a luxe detail or two can push a flip flop into extraordinary territory.
So, now that we know what make a flip flop special, here are our picks for the best flip flops for summer...
For value and color range alone, it's hard to beat Old Navy Flip Flops. They are available in 18 colors and cost less than a short latte.
→ Buy Old Navy Classic Flip Flops, $2.50, at oldnavy.com.
J.Crew Flip Flops have been a Summer favorite of mine since college. They get bonus points for being simultaneously affordable and available in a range of high-fashion styles.
→ Buy J.Crew Skinny Classic Flip Flops, $16.50, at jcrew.com.
If comfort is your number one concern, the best flip flop for you is Havaianas, hands down. Their special formula rubber construction is like walking on a cloud.
→ Buy Havaianas Top Flip Flops, $18.00, at zappos.com; shipping and returns are free.
Queen of the iconic logo Tory Burch adds a subtle gold medallion to a classic flip flop design for a luxe take on the Summer staple.
→ Buy Tory Burch Flip Flops, $60.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
Editor's Note: This post was originally published on June 9, 2011. It has since been updated.
